United Green Group, a UK firm, signed a monumental deal with Kisumu County Government on Wednesday, March 22.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria witnessed the ceremony where Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong'o pledged to work with United Green Group to revamp the region's agricultural sector.
The partnership would kickstart a flagship agricultural fin-tech programme for rural communities within the Nyanza region.
It is also expected to spur high productivity in climate-smart farming and help the government set up agro-industrial facilities, creating new markets for farmers in the Lake Victoria Basin region for over five years.
"This venture will be the largest and most modern integrated agri-food and services programme and operation in Kenya, positioning the project as the leading strategic player in developing Kenya’s high-potential agricultural sector," Kuria stated.
According to Kuria, the project will integrate with other regional farming activities by establishing a unique smallholder farmer scheme to increase productivity and support sustainable farming methods.
Besides transforming the agricultural sector, the project is touted to create at least 5,000 direct jobs and incorporate 20,000 rural households.
"It will subsequently commit to off-take agreements with the farmers to ensure financial security for these farmers," Kuria added.
Commenting on the partnership agreement, Kisumu Governor Nyong'o lauded the UK firm noting that the deal it was a game-changer for Kisumu.
"This flagship agriculture investment program is set to revitalise the sector," the second term governor stated.
The pact signalled President William Ruto's commitment to ensure the UK-led flagship investment project delivers sector productivity and structural improvements, catalysing future food security.
It is expected to reduce country's reliance on food imports and donations to sustain the citizens.
